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Itinerary for Sep 29 — Oct 4, 2013

Description: Your home away from home is Palmer House Hilton at 17 East Monroe Street, conveniently located downtown a block and a half from the Art Institute. The longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House originally opened on September 26, 1871 as a wedding gift to Bertha Honore Palmer from her husband, Chicago merchant baron Potter Palmer. A formative early patron of the Art Institute of Chicago, Bertha Palmer personally collected and donated many of the Art Institute's masterpieces of French Impressionism, European, Asian, and American art. As the longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House has been the destination of choice for every U.S. president since Ulysses S. Grant, world leaders and dignitaries, celebrities, and Chicago's movers-and-shakers. Catering to on-the-go visitors, who expect the finest in dining, entertainment, and services, the Palmer House is a luxury hotel in Chicago that transcends generations with a modern twist on its rich traditions. Defining the heart of Chicago's downtown Loop, the Palmer House forms an architectural nexus among the historic and modern skyscrapers of Burnham and Root, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Mies van der Rohe.

Facility amenities: With its recent renovation of the public area and guest rooms, the Palmer House offers many contemporary luxuries in the grandeur of an historic setting, including complimentary Wireless Internet in the hotel lobby. Dine in Lockwood Restaurant, a critically acclaimed restaurant rooted in French and Italian traditions. Enjoy Potter's Lounge, for sophisticated, yet relaxed, conversation over drinks. The Lobby Bar features cocktails and light fare -- perfect for before dinner or the theater. Additionally, enjoy the complimentary Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi, Health Club & Fitness Center, On-site Valet Parking, and Valet Laundry Service. The Street Level offers convenient retail stores and cafes with indoor access.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: Please see comments below.If you would like to arrive before your program begins or stay after it ends, we have negotiated discounted rates with the Palmer House Hilton. Please call Elizabeth Hein, Director of Reservations, directly at 312-917-4967.

Check in time: 3:00 PM

Day One: Sunday, September 29 - Arrival, Registration, and Orientation

Afternoon: HOTEL CHECK-IN: Entrances to the Palmer House are on Monroe, Wabash, and State Streets. If staying at the Palmer House, you may check in to your guest room beginning at 3:00 p.m. (If you arrive early and your guest room is not available, you are welcome to leave your luggage in the secure storage facility while you explore until 3:00.) Upon receiving your room key card, the front desk staff will inform you of the location for the 4:30 p.m. Road Scholar Orientation, where you will be greeted by your host from the Art Institute.

PROGRAM REGISTRATION & RECEPTION: Please join us at 4:30pm in our designated meeting room to register with the program staff and enjoy a brief reception with your fellow participants.

ORIENTATION & OVERVIEW: Enjoy a relaxed orientation and overview of the program, the Palmer House, the Art Institute, and Chicago. Your host will introduce you to the history of the Art Institute and its collection, including the unique historic relationship between the Art Institute and the Palmer House. Your Art Institute Program Coordinate will also provide you with meal vouchers for the Palmer House. Please bring the appropriate voucher for each meal .

Please be aware that program activities and scheduled times could change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: Following orientation, a light dinner will be served at approximately 6:30. Unless indicated otherwise, dinner will be at the Lockwood Restaurant in the Palmer House lobby. (Be sure to bring the appropriate meal voucher.) Lockwood is a renowned downtown dining destination with a menu featuring American cuisine enhanced by herbs, vegetables, and urban honey harvested from its very own rooftop garden and apiary. Lockwood is a proud supporter of local, sustainable, artisan producers and suppliers.

Description: Your home away from home is Palmer House Hilton at 17 East Monroe Street, conveniently located downtown a block and a half from the Art Institute. The longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House originally opened on September 26, 1871 as a wedding gift to Bertha Honore Palmer from her husband, Chicago merchant baron Potter Palmer. A formative early patron of the Art Institute of Chicago, Bertha Palmer personally collected and donated many of the Art Institute's masterpieces of French Impressionism, European, Asian, and American art. As the longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House has been the destination of choice for every U.S. president since Ulysses S. Grant, world leaders and dignitaries, celebrities, and Chicago's movers-and-shakers. Catering to on-the-go visitors, who expect the finest in dining, entertainment, and services, the Palmer House is a luxury hotel in Chicago that transcends generations with a modern twist on its rich traditions. Defining the heart of Chicago's downtown Loop, the Palmer House forms an architectural nexus among the historic and modern skyscrapers of Burnham and Root, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Mies van der Rohe.

Facility amenities: With its recent renovation of the public area and guest rooms, the Palmer House offers many contemporary luxuries in the grandeur of an historic setting, including complimentary Wireless Internet in the hotel lobby. Dine in Lockwood Restaurant, a critically acclaimed restaurant rooted in French and Italian traditions. Enjoy Potter's Lounge, for sophisticated, yet relaxed, conversation over drinks. The Lobby Bar features cocktails and light fare -- perfect for before dinner or the theater. Additionally, enjoy the complimentary Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi, Health Club & Fitness Center, On-site Valet Parking, and Valet Laundry Service. The Street Level offers convenient retail stores and cafes with indoor access.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: Please see comments below.If you would like to arrive before your program begins or stay after it ends, we have negotiated discounted rates with the Palmer House Hilton. Please call Elizabeth Hein, Director of Reservations, directly at 312-917-4967.

Check in time: 3:00 PM

Day Two: Monday, September 30 - Early Entry/Gallery Talks/Free Evening

Breakfast: Greet your fellow participants each morning at the hotel’s deluxe continental breakfast buffet. The hot and cold breakfast buffet served in Lockwood Restaurant features some or all of the following items: toast, pastries, fruit, yogurt, cereal, deli meats and cheeses, oatmeal, sausage, bacon, potatoes, freshly prepared eggs to order, omelet, French toast, pancakes or waffles, coffee, tea, milk and juice.

Morning: INTRODUCTION TO THE ART INSTITUTE: Meet your fellow participants and an Art Institute representative at 9:30am to walk to the Art Institute for early entry before the general public. Enjoy an introductory gallery walk of the Art Institute of Chicago, including the history, architecture, and an orientation of the collection. Explore the Art Institute's new addition, the Modern Wing, including an exclusive look of the Modern Wing's state-of-the-art Ryan Education Center. Weather permitting, we'll also visit the Modern Wing's rooftop Bluhm Family Sculpture Terrace with breathtaking views of Chicago's historic architectural legacy, contemporary skyscrapers, Millennium Park, and Lake Michigan.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch in the Art Institute's Museum Café, offering a broad range of selections with sustainable, local, and seasonal ingredients. The café features a deli station with a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups; a full grill for burgers; entree specials; an Italian pizza station; and a dessert station with a full array of homemade treats. Eat at your own pace with your fellow Road Scholar companions and enjoy some free time after lunch to browse the museum galleries on your own.

Afternoon: GALLERY TALKS: Enjoy a full afternoon of multiple gallery talks led by Art Institute lecturing staff. Gallery talks throughout the program trace the history and development of world art with a general focus on western civilization. The specific itinerary varies slightly depending on week and which special exhibitions are included, but the itinerary generally includes Ancient Art, Medieval through 18th-century European art, French and American Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, European Modernism, Asian art, and American Art from Colonial through Modernism.

Depending on our schedule, we may unwind and rest our feet at the end of our first full day with a documentary video in the Art Institute. See Day 3 for details.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel in Lockwood Restaurant. The chef's philosophy is "cooking by hand" with as much made in house from scratch as possible. A choice of entree is offered nightly with your plated and served three-course meal.

Evening: FREE EVENING: Take this opportunity to explore the many cultural and historic attractions Chicago has to offers. The city has an outstanding reputation for blues and jazz. You can stroll through Millennium Park to admire the lights and art, or simply relax with the many amenities at the hotel. Consider a visit the Gene Siskel Film Center or Second City comedy improv. Information on Chicago's attractions is provided at orientation on Day 1 and included in your preparatory materials.

Description: Your home away from home is Palmer House Hilton at 17 East Monroe Street, conveniently located downtown a block and a half from the Art Institute. The longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House originally opened on September 26, 1871 as a wedding gift to Bertha Honore Palmer from her husband, Chicago merchant baron Potter Palmer. A formative early patron of the Art Institute of Chicago, Bertha Palmer personally collected and donated many of the Art Institute's masterpieces of French Impressionism, European, Asian, and American art. As the longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House has been the destination of choice for every U.S. president since Ulysses S. Grant, world leaders and dignitaries, celebrities, and Chicago's movers-and-shakers. Catering to on-the-go visitors, who expect the finest in dining, entertainment, and services, the Palmer House is a luxury hotel in Chicago that transcends generations with a modern twist on its rich traditions. Defining the heart of Chicago's downtown Loop, the Palmer House forms an architectural nexus among the historic and modern skyscrapers of Burnham and Root, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Mies van der Rohe.

Facility amenities: With its recent renovation of the public area and guest rooms, the Palmer House offers many contemporary luxuries in the grandeur of an historic setting, including complimentary Wireless Internet in the hotel lobby. Dine in Lockwood Restaurant, a critically acclaimed restaurant rooted in French and Italian traditions. Enjoy Potter's Lounge, for sophisticated, yet relaxed, conversation over drinks. The Lobby Bar features cocktails and light fare -- perfect for before dinner or the theater. Additionally, enjoy the complimentary Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi, Health Club & Fitness Center, On-site Valet Parking, and Valet Laundry Service. The Street Level offers convenient retail stores and cafes with indoor access.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: Please see comments below.If you would like to arrive before your program begins or stay after it ends, we have negotiated discounted rates with the Palmer House Hilton. Please call Elizabeth Hein, Director of Reservations, directly at 312-917-4967.

Morning: GALLERY TALK: Meet your fellow participants and an Art Institute representative at 9:30 to walk to the Art Institute for early entry. Continue our exploration of the Art Institute's masterpieces with a morning gallery talk by the Art Institute education staff. The specific itinerary varies slightly depending on week and which special exhibitions are included. See Day 2 for a detailed listing of gallery talk topics.

Afternoon: FREE AFTERNOON: Build on what you've learned and explore the museum on your own. Unwind with a documentary video in the Art Institute. This PBS production discusses the collection and history of the Art Institute, exploring masterpieces that we will see as a group and introducing you to other areas in the museum to explore on your own. Depending on our schedule, this video may be screened the prior afternoon instead.

You may also wish to enjoy the Art Institute's 12:00 and 2:00 public gallery talks, visit the many special exhibitions, marvel at Thorne Miniature Rooms, or research your passion in the Art Institute's world-class art history library. Take advantage of your complimentary Art Institute audio guide ticket (or save it for later).

Or, enjoy this opportunity to visit one of Chicago's many cultural venues, historic neighborhoods, and other museums. Information on Chicago's attractions is provided at orientation on Day 1 and included in your preparatory materials.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel in Lockwood Restaurant.

Evening: FREE EVENING: Take advantage of what this great city has to offer. You may wish to attend an orchestra or theater performance or any of a multitude of other choices. The Museum of Contemporary Art is open late Tuesday evenings and has free entry for Illinois residents.

Description: Your home away from home is Palmer House Hilton at 17 East Monroe Street, conveniently located downtown a block and a half from the Art Institute. The longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House originally opened on September 26, 1871 as a wedding gift to Bertha Honore Palmer from her husband, Chicago merchant baron Potter Palmer. A formative early patron of the Art Institute of Chicago, Bertha Palmer personally collected and donated many of the Art Institute's masterpieces of French Impressionism, European, Asian, and American art. As the longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House has been the destination of choice for every U.S. president since Ulysses S. Grant, world leaders and dignitaries, celebrities, and Chicago's movers-and-shakers. Catering to on-the-go visitors, who expect the finest in dining, entertainment, and services, the Palmer House is a luxury hotel in Chicago that transcends generations with a modern twist on its rich traditions. Defining the heart of Chicago's downtown Loop, the Palmer House forms an architectural nexus among the historic and modern skyscrapers of Burnham and Root, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Mies van der Rohe.

Facility amenities: With its recent renovation of the public area and guest rooms, the Palmer House offers many contemporary luxuries in the grandeur of an historic setting, including complimentary Wireless Internet in the hotel lobby. Dine in Lockwood Restaurant, a critically acclaimed restaurant rooted in French and Italian traditions. Enjoy Potter's Lounge, for sophisticated, yet relaxed, conversation over drinks. The Lobby Bar features cocktails and light fare -- perfect for before dinner or the theater. Additionally, enjoy the complimentary Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi, Health Club & Fitness Center, On-site Valet Parking, and Valet Laundry Service. The Street Level offers convenient retail stores and cafes with indoor access.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: Please see comments below.If you would like to arrive before your program begins or stay after it ends, we have negotiated discounted rates with the Palmer House Hilton. Please call Elizabeth Hein, Director of Reservations, directly at 312-917-4967.

Morning: GALLERY TALK: Meet your fellow participants and an Art Institute representative at 9:30 to walk to the Art Institute for early entry. Continue our exploration of the Art Institute's masterpieces with a morning gallery talk by the Art Institute education staff. The specific itinerary varies slightly depending on week and which special exhibitions are included. See Day 2 for a detailed listing of gallery talk topics.

Lunch: Lunch in the Art Institute's Museum Café.

Afternoon: The Chicago Architecture Foundation takes you to see some of the most celebrated architecture in the world! The historic walking exploration of the downtown "Loop" is a favorite among past participants. A visit to Chicago would be incomplete without taking in some of our most famous buildings. The trip lasts approximately two and a half hours.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel in Lockwood Restaurant.

Evening: FREE EVENING: You have many options in this world class city. During the evening on your own, you could enjoy some musical theater at Broadway in Chicago or the original Blue Man Group. Programs taking place in the summer may also offer the possibility of enjoying an outdoor performance of the Grant Park Music Orchestra in Millennium Park. Information on Chicago's attractions and entertainment opportunities is provided at orientation on Day 1 and included in your preparatory materials.

Description: Your home away from home is Palmer House Hilton at 17 East Monroe Street, conveniently located downtown a block and a half from the Art Institute. The longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House originally opened on September 26, 1871 as a wedding gift to Bertha Honore Palmer from her husband, Chicago merchant baron Potter Palmer. A formative early patron of the Art Institute of Chicago, Bertha Palmer personally collected and donated many of the Art Institute's masterpieces of French Impressionism, European, Asian, and American art. As the longest continuously operating hotel in North America, the Palmer House has been the destination of choice for every U.S. president since Ulysses S. Grant, world leaders and dignitaries, celebrities, and Chicago's movers-and-shakers. Catering to on-the-go visitors, who expect the finest in dining, entertainment, and services, the Palmer House is a luxury hotel in Chicago that transcends generations with a modern twist on its rich traditions. Defining the heart of Chicago's downtown Loop, the Palmer House forms an architectural nexus among the historic and modern skyscrapers of Burnham and Root, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Mies van der Rohe.

Facility amenities: With its recent renovation of the public area and guest rooms, the Palmer House offers many contemporary luxuries in the grandeur of an historic setting, including complimentary Wireless Internet in the hotel lobby. Dine in Lockwood Restaurant, a critically acclaimed restaurant rooted in French and Italian traditions. Enjoy Potter's Lounge, for sophisticated, yet relaxed, conversation over drinks. The Lobby Bar features cocktails and light fare -- perfect for before dinner or the theater. Additionally, enjoy the complimentary Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi, Health Club & Fitness Center, On-site Valet Parking, and Valet Laundry Service. The Street Level offers convenient retail stores and cafes with indoor access.

Smoking policy: YesSmoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: Please see comments below.If you would like to arrive before your program begins or stay after it ends, we have negotiated discounted rates with the Palmer House Hilton. Please call Elizabeth Hein, Director of Reservations, directly at 312-917-4967.

Check in time: 3:00 PM

Day Five: Thursday, October 03 - Early Entry/Gallery Talks and Exhibition Explorat...

Early Entry/Gallery Talks and Exhibition Exploration/Public Lecture at the Art Institute

Breakfast: Deluxe continental breakfast buffet at the hotel.

Morning: GALLERY TALK: Meet your fellow participants and an Art Institute representative at 9:30 to walk to the Art Institute for early entry. Continue our exploration of the Art Institute's masterpieces with a morning gallery talk by the Art Institute education staff. The specific itinerary varies slightly depending on week and which special exhibitions are included. See Day 2 for a detailed listing of gallery talk topics.

Lunch: Lunch in the Art Institute's Museum Café.

Afternoon: Squeeze in the 12:00 public gallery talk after lunch before regrouping to continue our exploration.

The afternoon continues with an exploration of a special exhibition or a private gallery talk led by the Art Institute education staff. Enjoy some free time in the late afternoon to explore on your own with a complimentary audio guide.

Dinner: Dinner on your own. Enjoy this opportunity to explore Chicago's many excellent and historic eateries, such as Rick Bayless's Frontera Grill, Russian Tea Time, Ada's Famous Deli, 17/west at the Berghoff, the Art Institute's new Modern Wing rooftop restaurant Terzo Piano, and more. A list of recommendations will be provided. Eat on your own time and pace to take advantage of the evening programs at the Art Institute.

Evening: Return to the Art Institute this evening to explore on your own or attend the public programs. The Art Institute is open until 8:00pm Thursday evenings. Your preparatory materials will also include information on a free-time performance of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra this evening.

Morning: GALLERY TALK: Meet your fellow participants and an Art Institute representative at 9:30 to walk to the Art Institute for early entry. Conclude your exciting week with a final private gallery talk by the Art Institute education staff exploring masterpieces in the Art Institute's collection. The specific itinerary varies slightly depending on week and which special exhibitions are included. See Day 2 for a detailed listing of gallery talk topics.

Afternoon: The program concludes at approximately 11:15am. We encourage you to remain in the Art Institute to enjoy the 12:00 and 2:00pm public gallery talks, revisit your favorite galleries, or explore on your own.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities

Chicago, Illinois

Adler Planetarium and Astronomy CenterThe first planetarium built in the Western Hemisphere.For additional information, visit: www.adlerplanetarium.org

Art Institute of ChicagoWith one of the world's greatest collections of Impressionist paintings, the Art Institute stands out among the rest. Enjoy Chicago's premiere museum of art encompassing a magnificent panoply of global heritage and aesthetics. Visit the Art Institute's online calendar to browse a listing of public lectures and performances offered during your Road Scholar program. Take special note of possible Thursday evening offerings, when the museum is open until 8 p.m.For additional information, visit: www.artic.edu/aic/calendar

Blue ChicagoLocated in the River North entertainment district at 536 N. Clark St. just a short cab ride from the hotel, Blue Chicago features some of the best of Chicago blues music. Visit the website or call 312-661-0100 for performers, times, & cover charge.For additional information, visit: bluechicago.com

Broadway in ChicagoA collection of theaters in the downtown theater district and around town featuring some of the most popular musical theater smash hits!For additional information, visit: broadwayinchicago.com

Buddy Guy's LegendsLocated at 754 S Wabash, just a short cab ride from the hotel, Buddy Guy's features Cajun soul food, a major archive of Blues memorabilia, and some of the finest blues music in Chicago. Go online or call 312-427-1190 for performers, times, & cover charge.For additional information, visit: buddyguy.com

Chicago Cultural CenterA brief walk from the hotel, this stunning landmark building is home to Chicago's Visitor Information Center, the world's largest Tiffany glass dome and free music, performances, films, lectures, and art exhibits. Located at 78 E Washington.For additional information, visit: chicagoculturalcenter.org

Chicago Symphony OrchestraThe Art Institute is often able to offer a special group rate during your Road Scholar program. Before purchasing tickets, please contact your Art Institute group leader or look for details in your preparatory materials.For additional information, visit: cso.org

Grant Park Music FestivalEnjoy the nation's only remaining free, municipally-supported, outdoor, classical music series set against the backdrop of Millennium Park's new state-of-the-art Jay Pritzker Pavilion designed by internationally renowned architect Frank Gehry.For additional information, visit: grantparkmusicfestival.com

Green Mill Jazz ClubSteeped in the heady sounds of the early '30s and '40s and Chicago's notorious prohibition-era mobster history, the Green Mill speakeasy has an atmosphere that's sure to delight. Located a cab-ride away at 4802 N. Broadway Ave., 773-878-5552.For additional information, visit: greenmilljazz.com

Jazz ShowcaseIn the historic Dearborn Station building at 806 S. Plymouth Ct, just a short cab ride from the hotel, Jazz Showcase offers nightly sets at 8 and 10 p.m., 312-360-0234.For additional information, visit: jazzshowcase.com

Museum of Contemporary Art220 E Chicago Ave. One of the nation's largest facilities devoted to the art of our time, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) offers exhibits of the most thought-provoking art created since 1945. Open until 8 p.m. on Tuesdays.For additional information, visit: mcachicago.org

Museum of Science and IndustryThe last remaining major structure from the 1893 World's Fair, the Musem of Science and Industry will delight visitors of all ages. Visit the newly reopened U-505 submarine. The Museum of Science and Industry offers continuously changing exhibits and the Omnimax Theater.For additional information, visit: www.msichicago.org

The Field Museum of Natural HistoryTaking center stage on Chicago's "Museum Campus," the Field Museum boasts a world-class collection of biological and anthropological objects assembled for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Home of Sue the Tyrannosaurus Rex.For additional information, visit: www.fieldmuseum.org

The Second CityDelighting audiences for over 50 years, The Second City resident theatre troupes write and perform original sketch and improv comedy revues. Located in the historic Old Town neighborhood at 1616 North Wells St.For additional information, visit: secondcity.com

Important information about your itinerary: Please know that while we do everything we can to finalize all aspects of our programs well in advance, there are logistics that occasionally must be altered. Our website will reflect the most recent information, and we are committed to providing you with final program details no later than eight weeks prior to the start of programs outside the U.S. and three weeks prior to the start of programs within the U.S. If you ever have questions about your program, please don't hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to assist you.

Need Help?

The latest in light, portable, easy-to-use QUIETVOX listening devices are available on Road Scholar programs.* Whether you are outdoors, in a crowd or in a museum environment where speaking loudly is discouraged, a listening device makes it feel like our experts are speaking clearly and directly to you. Hear for yourself on a Road Scholar adventure!

*Please note that due to the nature of some programs, the remote location or government regulations, listening devices may not be available. If you’d like to know for sure if your program will offer listening devices, just call and ask an Advisor!